Guest column: A surprising encounter

Joyce RogersCommunity Press guest columnist

On Nov. 27 and thereafter, I became re-acquainted with Ralph Luebbe, a gentleman whom I had not seen in 15 years or so. The circumstances of our meeting again were unusual.

We were both exercising at a health center; I was at a new place, and he was at his accustomed place. We were both at West Park. I spent 18 days there from Nov. 16 to Dec. 4 recovering from a broken femur, and Ralph has become a long-term resident at West Park.

Many, many years ago, I first became acquainted with Ralph Luebbe in my advocacy work with people with disabilities. At that time, Mr. Luebbe had been assisting St. Xavier Church at Seventh and Sycamore streets to become "handicapped accessible." Ralph was soon a volunteer reader and driver for my husband, Robert, and me. I do not recall all the many kindnesses Ralph performed for us all those years ago; but I do recall that he was so very kind, thoughtful, and generous as well as being respectful and intelligent in assisting us.

What a joy it was when Robert and I met Ralph at West Park! Breaking my leg was certainly not on my bucket list, but meeting Ralph again was one of those surprises in life more wonderful than a burst of sunshine on a chilly and gloomy day.

On Feb. 12, Robert, Ralph, and I enjoyed a delightful lunch together at Diane's Restaurant. I asked him questions about his family and career accomplishments, and our conversation revealed that Ralph was the youngest of six siblings, the oldest of whom was a Sister of Charity, who died of cancer in her 50s. Ralph said he learned a lot from Rosemary, his oldest sister, and her attitude toward her fate. Injury and illness, sorrow and suffering, and death are difficult to understand and accept. Yet God's love for us shines most brightly in the darkest corners of our lives.

My renewed acquaintance with Ralph Luebbe was certainly a joy, delight, and comfort in the midst of recovering from a broken leg. Given the fact that walking at Fernbank Park with friends is a major part of my life now that I am retired, I may be tempted to ask, "Why did I have to break my leg?" Because Mr. Luebbe and I met again after 15 years or so, I do not think the above is a fair or relevant question.

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Guest column: A surprising encounter

On Nov. 27 and thereafter, I became re-acquainted with Ralph Luebbe, a gentleman whom I had not seen in 15 years or so. The circumstances of our meeting again were unusual.